Israel and Lebanon will negotiate their land border after agreeing to establish joint working groups. Israel will release five Lebanese detainees, coordinated with the US. Despite negotiations, military actions against Hezbollah continue, including targeted strikes by the IDF. The commitment to maintain the ceasefire is reiterated by US officials, amid ongoing security concerns.
On Tuesday, Israel and Lebanon agreed to commence negotiations regarding the demarcation of their border, as reported by the Prime Minister’s Office. This decision followed a four-nation meeting with representatives from the United States and France, held at the United Nations peacekeeping force headquarters in Naqoura, Lebanon.
The discussions will entail the establishment of three joint working groups, set to begin in the coming month, which will focus on five areas currently occupied by Israel within Lebanon, the Blue Line that serves as the de facto border, disputed points, and the status of Lebanese detainees held by Israel.
In a gesture toward the newly elected Lebanese President Joseph Aoun, Israel has agreed to release five Lebanese detainees, an action coordinated with the United States. In response, Lebanon confirmed the receipt of four Lebanese nationals termed as hostages, with a fifth to be released shortly, as stated by the Lebanese president’s office via X.
Although Israel and Lebanon reached a maritime boundary agreement during Yair Lapid’s premiership, they have not yet formalized a land border. The current truce, effective since November, has ended hostilities between Hezbollah and Israel, marked by a significant military confrontation that commenced on October 8, 2023.
US Deputy Presidential Special Envoy Morgan Ortagus emphasized the commitment to the ceasefire and expressed optimism about the diplomatic efforts, stating, “Everyone involved remains committed to maintaining the ceasefire agreement and to fully implement all its terms.”
Despite the ongoing negotiations, Israel maintains targeted actions against Hezbollah operatives south of the Litani River, including a recent drone strike that resulted in the death of a Hezbollah commander. The IDF indicates that these strikes are required to mitigate threats to Israeli security, underscoring the precarious nature of the current situation.
In summary, Israel and Lebanon are poised to engage in negotiations to establish a clear land border following a meeting with international partners. The release of Lebanese detainees coupled with ongoing military vigilance highlights the complexities of the relationship. The commitment to uphold the ceasefire and address outstanding issues reflects an evolving diplomatic landscape, even as security threats remain.
Original Source: vinnews.com
